Treatments for Dysthymia in Children

The treatment for Persistent Depressive Disorder consists of psychotherapy and medication. Evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions for depression include cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy. Combination treatment using psychotherapy and antidepressant medication has shown to be the most effective intervention. The antidepressant medications most commonly used are the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Children and adolescents need to be monitored very closely by their healthcare team when antidepressant medications are being initiated or doses are being increased. The Outpatient Psychiatry Service at Boston Children’s Hospital is experienced in the assessment and treatment of depressive disorders in children and adolescents. For more information please call 617-355-6680.

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